A (meth)acrylic polymer composition comprising particles, its method of preparation and its use as masterbatch

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to a polymeric (meth) acrylic composition comprising polymeric silicone particles and optionally polymeric (meth) acrylic particles. In particular the present invention relates to a polymeric (meth) acrylic composition comprising polymeric silicone particles having a weight average particle diameter between 1 μιτι and 10 μιτι and optionally polymeric (meth) acrylic particles with a having a weight average particle diameter between 20 μιτι and 100 μιτι. The present invention concerns also the use of such a polymeric (meth) acrylic composition comprising polymeric silicone particles and optionally polymeric (meth) acrylic particles as a masterbatch. The present invention concerns also a process for making a (meth) acrylic composition comprising polymeric silicone particles and polymeric (meth) acrylic particles from a polymeric (meth) acrylic masterbatch composition comprising polymeric silicone particles and optionally polymeric (meth) acrylic particles.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a polymeric (meth) acrylic compositioncomprising polymeric silicone particles and optionally polymeric(meth)acrylic particles.

In particular the present invention relates to a polymeric (meth)acrylic composition comprising polymeric silicone particles having aweight average particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm and optionallypolymeric (meth)acrylic particles with a having a weight averageparticle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm.

The present invention concerns also the use of such a polymeric (meth)acrylic composition comprising polymeric silicone particles andoptionally polymeric (meth)acrylic particles as a masterbatch.

The present invention concerns also a process for making a (meth)acryliccomposition comprising polymeric silicone particles and polymeric(meth)acrylic particles from a polymeric (meth) acrylic masterbatchcomposition comprising polymeric silicone particles and optionallypolymeric (meth)acrylic particles.

TECHNICAL PROBLEM

Thermoplastic polymers and especially (meth) acrylic polymers are widelyused, including lightning applications. This is mainly due to itscharacteristics as a highly transparent polymer material with excellentresistance to ultraviolet radiation and weathering. So (meth) acrylicpolymers are used for example in lamps, luminaires, light covers,displays, lit shelving, surfaces and illuminated signs.

The lightning applications have various requests on the (meth) acrylicpolymers or the compositions based on (meth) acrylic polymers as lighttransmission, diffusing power. These compositions based on (meth)acrylic polymers comprise generally more or less spherical particles,which are also polymeric particles or organic or inorganic particles.

Additionally it is of also of great interest to have a polymericcomposition with a good compromise between light transmission anddiffusing properties.

This compromise is based on the correct or optimal quantity of therespective particles in the polymeric composition or the correct oroptimal weight ratio between different kinds of respective particles inthe polymeric composition.

Therefore it is important to have a polymeric composition that containsthe correct or optimal quantity of the respective particles in thepolymeric composition or the correct or optimal weight ratio betweendifferent kinds of respective particles in the polymeric composition.Therefore it is also important to have a process that achieves to obtaina polymeric composition that comprises the correct or optimal quantityof the respective particles in the polymeric composition or the corrector optimal weight ratio between different kinds of respective particlesin the polymeric composition. Therefore it is additionally important tohave a polymeric composition that can be used in a process that achievesto obtain a polymeric composition that comprises the correct or optimalquantity of the respective particles in the polymeric composition or thecorrect or optimal weight ratio between different kinds of respectiveparticles in the polymeric composition.

The objective of the present invention is to provide a (meth)acrylicpolymer composition comprising polymeric particles suitable for thepreparation of a polymeric composition that contains the correct oroptimal quantity of the respective polymeric particles in the polymericcomposition or the correct or optimal weight ratio between differentkinds of respective polymeric particles in the polymeric composition forsatisfying optical properties of the polymeric composition in lightningapplications.

The objective of the present invention is also to provide a(meth)acrylic polymer composition comprising polymeric particles whichcan be used as a masterbatch for the preparation a polymeric compositionthat contains the correct or optimal quantity of the respectivepolymeric particles in the polymeric composition or the correct oroptimal weight ratio between different kinds of respective polymericparticles in the polymeric composition for satisfying optical propertiesof the polymeric composition in lightning applications.

A further objective of the present invention is to provide a process forproducing polymeric composition that contains the correct or optimalquantity of the respective polymeric particles in the polymericcomposition or the correct or optimal weight ratio between differentkinds of respective polymeric particles in the polymeric composition forsatisfying optical properties of the polymeric composition in lightningapplications, from a (meth)acrylic polymer composition comprisingpolymeric particles.

Another objective of the present invention is to provide a (meth)acrylicpolymer composition comprising polymeric particles suitable for thepreparation of a polymeric composition that contains the correct oroptimal quantity of the respective polymeric particles in the polymericcomposition or the correct or optimal weight ratio between differentkinds of respective polymeric particles in the polymeric composition,said polymeric composition combines exceptional transmission anddiffusion properties at the same time.

Still another objective of the present invention is to provide a(meth)acrylic polymer composition suitable for the preparation of apolymeric composition that contains the correct or optimal quantity ofthe respective polymeric particles in the polymeric composition or thecorrect or optimal weight ratio between different kinds of respectivepolymeric particles in the polymeric composition for satisfying opticalproperties of the polymeric composition in lightning applications, saidpolymeric composition has a high light transmission, at least 80%, andat the same time having a high relative diffusing power and hidingpower, in order to hide the light source.

Again still another objective of the present invention is to provide a(meth)acrylic polymer composition suitable for the preparation of apolymeric composition that contains the correct or optimal quantity ofthe respective polymeric particles in the polymeric composition or thecorrect or optimal weight ratio between different kinds of respectivepolymeric particles in the polymeric composition for satisfying opticalproperties of the polymeric composition in lightning applications, saidpolymeric composition that has a high light transmission, at least 80%,and at the same time having a high relative diffusing power and hidingpower, in order to hide the light source, with a reduced quantities ofscattering particles.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Prior Art

The diffusion of light which increases the relative diffusion power andthe hiding power is usually increased by adding scattering particles tothe composition.

The document WO2004/034136 discloses a bulk diffuser for a flat paneldisplay. The bulk light diffuser material may be a sheet or filmcomprising of polycarbonate and a particulate light diffusing component.PMMA and silicone particles are used separately in the examples, but notin combination together.

The document JP11060966 discloses a composition for high light diffusionperformance. The disclosed composition comprises two kind of particles,one with an average diameter less than 5 μm and the other with anaverage diameter between 5 μm and 10 μm. The particles are eithersilicone or styrene based particles. However the composition has a lowtransmission.

The document DE102012216081 discloses the manufacturing of a lightdiffusing molded part by injection molding. The composition forinjection molding comprises a matrix of polymethyl methacrylate andspherical plastic particles with a particle size of 1 to 24 μm.

The document U.S. Pat. No. 7,897,714 discloses silicone fine particlesand a thermoplastic resin composition using the particles. The siliconefine particles are used as a diffuser and are having an average particlediameter of about 2.5 μm to 3.5 μm.

The document WO2004/098857 discloses an injection molding method for theproduction of light diffusing molded items. The molding materialcomprises a matrix of polymethyl methacrylate and spherical plasticparticles with a particle size of 1 to 24 μm.

The document JP10087941 discloses a light diffusing acrylic resincomposition and a light diffusing molding product. A silicon rubberpowder is used having an average particle diameter of 0.1 to 50 μm.

The document JP10087945 discloses a light diffusing acrylic resincomposition and a light diffusing formed body. A silicon rubber powderis used having an average particle diameter of 0.1 to 50 μm.

The document JP11021357 discloses a methacrylic resin comprisingspherical particles of a crosslinked silicone resin, comprising 1-10parts by weight of the crosslinked silicon resin. It discloses alsomethod for extruding a masterbatch pellet of this methacrylic resincomposition and light guide board prepared by using the resin.

The document U.S. Pat. No. 5,831,774 discloses a light diffusioncomposite. The light diffusion layer of the light diffusion material ofsaid comprises an acrylic resin as a binder resin and light diffusingagents including acrylic resin particles and silicone resin particles.The two particles represent at least 40 parts by weight of the resin.

The document JP01-269902 discloses a light diffusion plate comprising anacrylic resin and silicone resin particles. The resin composition isprepared by compounding.

The document KR20080062470 discloses a light diffusion plate. The lightdiffusion plate has a base layer consisting of a styrene resincontaining siloxane particles and methacrylic light diffusing agent.

The prior art discloses not, neither a master batch suitable for thepreparation of a polymeric composition having one type of particles orthe two type of particles nor a process for preparing compositionscomprising just one type of particles or a mixture of particles in thecomposition that does not have a satisfying compromise between lighttransmission and diffusing properties.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Surprisingly it has been discovered that a (meth)acrylic polymercomposition MB1 comprising:

-   -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1,    -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm,    -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.5 wt %        and 50 wt % of the composition comprising the components a) and        b);        is suitable for the preparation of a polymeric composition PC1        that contains the correct or optimal quantity of the polymeric        silicone particle PP1 in the polymeric composition PC1 or the        correct or optimal weight ratio between different kinds of        respective polymeric particles in the polymeric composition for        satisfying optical properties of the polymeric composition in        lightning applications.

Surprisingly it has been discovered that a (meth)acrylic polymercomposition MB1 comprising:

-   -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1    -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm,    -   c) optionally a polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a        weight average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,    -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.5 wt %        and 50 wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b)        and c);        is suitable for the preparation of a polymeric composition PC1        that contains the correct or optimal quantity of the polymeric        silicone particle PP1 in the polymeric composition PC1 or the        correct or optimal weight ratio between the different kinds of        respective polymeric particles PP1 and PP2 in the polymeric        composition for satisfying optical properties of the polymeric        composition in lightning applications.

Surprisingly it has been discovered that a (meth)acrylic polymercomposition MB1 comprising:

-   -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1,    -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm,    -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.5 wt %        and 50 wt % of the composition comprising the components a) and        b);        can be used as a masterbatch for the preparation of a polymeric        composition PC1 that contains the correct or optimal quantity of        the polymeric silicone particle PP1 in the polymeric composition        PC1 or the correct or optimal weight ratio between different        kinds of respective polymeric particles in the polymeric        composition for satisfying optical properties of the polymeric        composition in lightning applications.

Surprisingly it has also been discovered that a (meth)acrylic polymercomposition MB1 comprising:

-   -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1,    -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm,    -   c) optionally a polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a        weight average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,    -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.5 wt %        and 50 wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b)        and c);        can be used as masterbatch for the preparation of a polymeric        composition PC1 that contains the correct or optimal quantity of        the polymeric silicone particle PP1 in the polymeric composition        PC1 or the correct or optimal weight ratio between the different        kinds of respective polymeric particles PP1 and PP2 in the        polymeric composition for satisfying optical properties of the        polymeric composition in lightning applications.

It has also been found that a process for obtaining a polymericcomposition PC1, said composition PC1 comprises:

-   -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1    -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm    -   c) optionally a polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a        weight average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,    -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.05 wt %        and 10 wt % of the composition PC1 comprising the components        a), b) and c) and that the particle PP2 represents between 0.1        wt % and 20 wt % of the composition comprising the components        a), b) and c);        said process comprises the step of    -   blending a (meth)acrylic polymer composition MB1 comprising:        -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1,        -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average            particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm,        -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.5            wt % and 50 wt % of the composition comprising the            components a) and b) with a    -   with a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 and optionally with a polymeric        (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight average particle        diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm;        yields to a polymeric composition PC1 that contains the correct        or optimal quantity of the polymeric silicone particle PP1 in        the polymeric composition PC1 or the correct or optimal weight        ratio between the different kinds of respective polymeric        particles PP1 and PP2 in the polymeric composition for        satisfying optical properties of the polymeric composition in        lightning applications.

It has also been found that a process for obtaining a polymericcomposition PC1, said composition PC1 comprises:

-   -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1    -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm    -   c) a polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight        average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,    -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.05 wt %        and 10 wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b)        and c) and that the particle PP2 represents between 0.1 wt % and        20 wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b) and        c);        said process comprises the step of    -   blending a (meth)acrylic polymer composition MB1 comprising:        -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1,        -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average            particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm,        -   c) a polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight            average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,        -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.5            wt % and 50 wt % of the composition comprising the            components a), b) and c);    -   with a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1;        yields to a polymeric composition PC1 that contains the correct        or optimal quantity of the polymeric silicone particle PP1 in        the polymeric composition PC1 or the correct or optimal weight        ratio between the different kinds of respective polymeric        particles PP1 and PP2 in the polymeric composition for        satisfying optical properties of the polymeric composition in        lightning applications.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect, the present invention relates tocomposition MB1 comprising:

-   -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1    -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm.        characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.5 wt %        and 50 wt % of the composition MB1 comprising the components a)        and b).

According to a second aspect, the present invention relates tocomposition MB1 comprising:

-   -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1    -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm    -   c) optionally a polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a        weight average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,        characterized that the particle PP1 is represents between 0.5 wt        % and 50 wt % of the composition comprising the components        a), b) and c) and that the particle PP2 is represents between 10        wt % and 49 wt % of the composition comprising the components        a), b) and c).

According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to use of a(meth)acrylic polymer composition MB1 comprising:

-   -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1,    -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm,    -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.5 wt %        and 50 wt % of the composition comprising the components a) and        b);        as a masterbatch for the preparation of a polymeric composition        PC1 that contains the correct or optimal quantity of the        polymeric silicone particle PP1 in the polymeric composition PC1        or the correct or optimal weight ratio between different kinds        of respective polymeric particles in the polymeric composition        for satisfying optical properties of the polymeric composition        in lightning applications.

According to a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to use of a(meth)acrylic polymer composition MB1 comprising:

-   -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1,    -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm,    -   c) a polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight        average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,    -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.5 wt %        and 50 wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b)        and c) and that the particle PP2 represents between 10 wt % and        49 wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b) and        c);        as masterbatch for the preparation of a polymeric composition        PC1 that contains the correct or optimal quantity of the        polymeric silicone particle PP1 in the polymeric composition PC1        or the correct or optimal weight ratio between the different        kinds of respective polymeric particles PP1 and PP2 in the        polymeric composition for satisfying optical properties of the        polymeric composition in lightning applications

According to another aspect the present invention relates to a processfor obtaining a polymeric composition PC1, said composition PC1comprises:

-   -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1    -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm    -   c) a polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight        average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,    -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.05 wt %        and 10 wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b)        and c) and that the particle PP2 represents between 0.1 wt % and        20 wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b) and        c);        said process comprises the step of    -   blending a (meth)acrylic polymer composition MB1 comprising:        -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1,        -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average            particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm,        -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.5            wt % and 50 wt % of the composition comprising the            components a) and b) with a    -   with a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 and a polymeric (meth)acrylic        particle PP2 having a weight average particle diameter between        20 μm and 100 μm.

Still another aspect of the present invention relates to a process forobtaining a polymeric composition PC1, said composition PC1 comprises:

-   -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1    -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm    -   c) a polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight        average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,    -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.05 wt %        and 10 wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b)        and c) and that the particle PP2 represents between 0.1 wt % and        20 wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b) and        c);        said process comprises the step of    -   blending a (meth)acrylic polymer composition MB1 comprising:        -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1,        -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average            particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm,        -   c) a polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight            average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,        -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.5            wt % and 50 wt % of the composition comprising the            components a), b) and c) and that the particle PP2            represents between 10 wt % and 49 wt % of the composition            comprising the components a), b) and c);    -   with a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 and a polymeric (meth)acrylic        particle PP2 having a weight average particle diameter between        20 μm and 100 μm.

By the term “alkyl(meth)acrylate” as used is denoted to both alkylacrylate and alkyl methacrylate.

By the term “copolymer” as used is denoted that the polymers consists ofat least two different monomers.

By the term “parts” as used herein is denoted “parts by weight”.

By the term “thermoplastic polymer” as used is denoted a polymer thatturns to a liquid or becomes more liquid or less viscous when heated andthat can take on new shapes by the application of heat and pressure.

By the term “PMMA” as used in the present invention are denoted homo- orcopolymers of methyl methacrylate (MMA), for the copolymer of MMA theweight ratio of MMA inside the PMMA is at least 50 wt %.

By the term “masterbatch” as used is understood composition thatcomprises an additive in high concentration in a carrier material. Theadditive is dispersed in the carrier material.

By saying that a range from x to y in the present invention, it is meantthat the upper and lower limit of this range are included, equivalent toat least x and up to y.

By saying that a range is between x and y in the present invention, itis meant that the upper and lower limit of this range are excluded,equivalent to more than x and less then y.

With regard to the polymeric composition MB1 according to the inventionit comprises a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1, polymeric silicone particlesPP1 having a weight average particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm andoptionally polymeric (meth)acrylic particles PP2 having a weight averageparticle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm.

In a first preferred embodiment the polymeric composition MB1 comprisesa) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1, b) polymeric silicone particles PP1having a weight average particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm,characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.5 wt % and 50wt % of the polymeric composition MB1 comprising the components a) andb). The weight ratios of the particles of component b) is calculated onthe sum of the two components a) and b). More preferred according to thefirst preferred embodiment, the particle PP1 represents between 0.6 wt %and 50 wt %, still more preferred between 0.7 wt % and 50 wt % andadvantageously between 0.8 wt % and 50 wt % of the composition MB1.

In a second preferred embodiment the polymeric composition MB1 comprisesa) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1, b) polymeric silicone particles PP1having a weight average particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm and c)polymeric (meth)acrylic particles PP2 having a weight average particlediameter between 20 μm and 100 μm, characterized that the particle PP1represents between 0.5 wt % and 50 wt % of the composition comprisingthe components a), b) and c) and that the particle PP2 representsbetween 10 wt % and 49 wt % of the composition comprising the componentsa), b) and c). The weight ratios of the particles of component b) and c)are calculated on the sum of the three components a), b) and c). Morepreferred according to the second preferred embodiment, the particle PP1represents between 0.6 wt % and 14 wt %, still more preferred between0.7 wt % and 13 wt % and advantageously between 0.8 wt % and 11 wt % ofthe composition MB1. More preferred according to the second preferredembodiment, the particle PP2 represents between 45 wt % and 80 wt %,still more preferred between 50 wt % and 75 wt % and advantageouslybetween 55 wt % and 70 wt % of the composition MB1.

In a third preferred embodiment the polymeric composition MB1 comprisesa) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1, b) polymeric silicone particles PP1having a weight average particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm,characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.5 wt % and 50wt % of the polymeric composition MB1 comprising the components a) andb). The weight ratios of the particles of component b) is calculated onthe sum of the two components a) and b). More preferred according to thethird preferred embodiment, the particle PP1 represents between 10 wt %and 50 wt %, even more preferred between 11 wt % and 50 wt %, still morepreferred between 15 wt % and 50 wt % and advantageously between 15 wt %and 40 wt % of the composition MB1 and most advantageously between 16 wt% and 40 wt % of the composition MB1.

In a fourth preferred embodiment the polymeric composition MB1 comprisesa) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1, b) polymeric silicone particles PP1having a weight average particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm and c)polymeric (meth)acrylic particles PP2 having a weight average particlediameter between 20 μm and 100 μm, characterized that the particle PP1represents between 0.5 wt % and 50 wt % of the composition comprisingthe components a), b) and c) and that the particle PP2 representsbetween 10 wt % and 49 wt % of the composition comprising the componentsa), b) and c). The weight ratios of the particles of component b) and c)are calculated on the sum of the three components a), b) and c). Morepreferred according to the fourth preferred embodiment, the particle PP1represents between 10 wt % and 50 wt %, even more preferred between 11wt % and 50 wt %, still more preferred between 15 wt % and 50 wt % andadvantageously between 15 wt % and 40 wt % of the composition MB1 andmost advantageously between 16 wt % and 40 wt % of the composition MB1.More preferred according to the fourth preferred embodiment, theparticle PP2 represents between 15 wt % and 49 wt %, still morepreferred between 20 wt % and 49 wt % and advantageously between 30 wt %and 49 wt % of the composition MB1.

With regard to the (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 it is a polymeric polymerchain comprising at least 50 wt % of monomers coming acrylic and/ormethacrylic monomers. The (meth)acrylic polymer could also be a mixtureof two or more (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 to APx.

The acrylic and/or methacrylic monomers are chosen from acrylic acid,methacrylic acid, esters of acrylic acid of esters of methacrylic acid,alkyl acrylic monomers, alkyl methacrylic monomers and mixtures thereof.

Preferably the monomer is chosen from acrylic acid, methacrylic acid,alkyl acrylic monomers, alkyl methacrylic monomers and mixtures thereof,the alkyl group having from 1 to 22 carbons, either linear, branched orcyclic; preferably the alkyl group having from 1 to 12 carbons, eitherlinear, branched or cyclic.

Advantageously the meth)acrylic monomer is chosen from methylmethacrylate, ethyl methacrylate, methyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate,methacrylic acid, acrylic acid, n-butyl acrylate, iso-butyl acrylate,n-butyl methacrylate, iso-butyl methacrylate, cyclohexyl acrylate,cyclohexyl methacrylate, isobornyl acrylate, isobornyl methacrylate andmixtures thereof.

Other comonomers can be copolymerized with the acrylic and/ormethacrylic monomers as long as the (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 iscomprising at least 50 wt % of monomers coming acrylic and/ormethacrylic monomers in its polymeric chain. The other comonomers can bechosen from styrenic monomers as styrene or styrene deriviatives,acrylonitrile, vinylesters as vinylacetate. The amount of thesecomonomers is from 0 wt % to 50 wt %, preferably from 0 wt % to 40 wt %,more preferably from 0 wt % to 30 wt %, advantageously from 0 wt % to 20wt %.

In a first preferred embodiment the (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 is a homo-or copolymer of methyl methacrylate (MMA) that comprises at least 50%,preferably at least 60%, advantageously at least 70% and moreadvantageously at least 80% by weight of methyl methacrylate.

The copolymer of methyl methacrylate (MMA) comprises between 50% and99.9% by weight of methyl methacrylate and between 0.1 and 50% by weightof at least one monomer having at least one ethylenic unsaturation thatcan copolymerize with methyl methacrylate.

These monomers are well known and mention may be made, in particular ofacrylic and methacrylic acids and alkyl-(meth)acrylates in which thealkyl group has from 1 to 12 carbon atoms. As examples, mention may bemade of methyl acrylate and ethyl, butyl or 2-ethylhexyl (meth)acrylate.Preferably the comonomer is an alkyl acrylate in which the alkyl grouphaving from 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

According to the first more preferred embodiment the copolymer of methylmethacrylate (MMA) comprises from 80% to 99.8% advantageously from 90%to 99.7% and more advantageously from 90% to 99.5% by weight of methylmethacrylate and from 0.2% to 20% advantageously from 0.3% to 10% andmore advantageously from 0.5% to 10% by weight of at least one monomerhaving at least one ethylenic unsaturation that can copolymerize withmethyl methacrylate. Preferably the comonomer is chosen from methylacrylate or ethyl acrylate or mixtures thereof.

The (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 has a melt flow index (MFI) according toISO 1133 (230° C./3.8 kg) between 0.1 g/10 min and 20 g/10 min.Preferably melt flow index is between 0.2 g/10 min and 18 g/10 min, morepreferably between 0.3 g/10 min and 16 g/10 min, advantageously between0.4 g/10 min and 13 g/10 min.

The (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 has a refractive index between 1.46- and1.52, preferably between 1.47 and 1.52 and more preferably between 1.48and 1.52.

The (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 has a light transmittance according toASTM D-1003 (sheet of 3 mm thickness) of at least 85%, preferably 86%,more preferably 87%.

The (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 has a Vicat softening temperature of atleast 90° C. The Vicat softening temperature is measured according toISO 306:2013 (B50 method).

The composition according to the invention can comprise beside the(meth)acrylic polymer AP1 also an (meth)acrylic polymer AP2. The(meth)acrylic polymer AP1 and (meth)acrylic polymer AP2 form a mixtureor a blend. This mixture or blend consists of at least one homopolymerand at least one copolymer of MMA, or a mixture of at least twohomopolymers or two copolymers of MMA with a different average molecularweight or a mixture of at least two copolymers of MMA with a differentmonomer composition.

With regard to the polymeric silicone particle PP1, it is having aweight average particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm, the particlescomprises polysiloxanes chains having a silicone-oxygen backbone chain.

The polymeric silicone particle PP1 has a refractive index between 1.30and 1.45, preferably between 1.35 and 1.45, advantageously between 1.36and 1.44.

The weight average particle diameter of the polymeric silicone particlePP1 is preferably between 1 μm and 9 μm, more preferably between 1 μmand 8 μm, still more preferably between 1 μm and 7 μm, even morepreferably between 1 μm and 6 μm, advantageously between 1 μm and 5 μmand more advantageously between 1 μm and 4 μm.

The bulk density of a powder of the polymeric silicone particle PP1 isbetween 0.1 g/ml and 0.4 g/ml, preferably between 0.15 and 0.45 g/ml.

The polymeric silicone particle PP1 can for example be preparedaccording to US 2008/124549.

The polymeric silicone particle could also be a blend of two or moredifferent silicone particles PP1a, PP1b . . . , as long as all siliconeparticles have the before mentioned characteristics.

With regard to the polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weightaverage particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm, it comprises atleast 50 wt % of monomers coming from acrylic and/or methacrylicmonomers in the polymer chains of the polymeric particle PP2.

In a first preferred embodiment the polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2is a homo- or copolymer of methyl methacrylate (MMA) that comprises atleast 50%, preferably at least 60%, advantageously at least 65% and moreadvantageously at least 70% by weight of methyl methacrylate.

The weight average particle diameter of the polymeric (meth)acrylicparticle PP2 is preferably between 35 μm and 90 μm, more preferablybetween 35 μm and 60 μm and advantageously between 45 μm and 60 μm.

Preferably the polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 is crosslinked. Theweight ratio of the crosslinker in the (meth)acrylic particle PP2 isless than 5 wt %. The crosslinker is preferably chosen from an organiccompound having at least one acrylic or methacrylic function and asecond double bond which can polymerize as well.

The polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 has a refractive index between1.49 and 1.56, preferably between 1.50 and 1.55.

The polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 can be prepared according tosuspension polymerization.

The polymeric (meth)acrylic particle could also be a blend of two ormore different (meth)acrylic particles PP2a, PP2b . . . , as long as allsilicone particles have the before mentioned characteristics.

With regard to the polymeric composition PC1, said composition PC1comprises:

-   -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1    -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm    -   c) a polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight        average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,        characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.05 wt %        and 10 wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b)        and c) and that the particle PP2 represents between 0.1 wt % and        20 wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b) and        c).

Preferably the composition PC1 comprises between 0.06 wt % and 10 wt %of the polymeric particle PP1, more preferably between 0.07 wt % and 9wt %, still more preferably between 0.1 wt % and 8 wt %.

Preferably in a first preferred embodiment the composition PC1 comprisesbetween 6 wt % and 19 wt % of the polymeric particle PP2, morepreferably between 7 wt % and 18 wt %, still more preferably between 8wt % and 17 wt %.

More preferably the composition PC1 of the first preferred embodimentcomprises between 0.06 wt % and 1.8 wt % of the polymeric particle PP1and between 6 wt % and 19 wt % of the polymeric particle PP2; still morepreferably 0.1 wt % and 1 wt % of the polymeric particle PP1 and between8 wt % and 17 wt % of the polymeric particle PP2.

Preferably in a second preferred embodiment the composition PC1comprises between 10 wt % and 20 wt % of the polymeric particle PP2,more preferably between 10 wt % and 18 wt %, still more preferablybetween 11 wt % and 17 wt %.

More preferably the composition PC1 of the second preferred embodimentcomprises between 0.06 wt % and 1.8 wt % of the polymeric particle PP1and between 10 wt % and 20 wt % of the polymeric particle PP2; stillmore preferably 0.1 wt % and 1 wt % of the polymeric particle PP1 andbetween 11 wt % and 17 wt % of the polymeric particle PP2.

With regard to the process for the preparation a polymeric compositionMB1 according to the invention, it comprises the step of blending thecomponents a), b) and optionally c).

Preferably the process is made by compounding.

Said process is also capable for the preparation of a polymericcomposition MB1 suitable as a masterbatch for making polymericcomposition PC1 with said masterbatch MB1. The polymeric compositionMB1, the polymeric composition PC1, the (meth)acrylic polymer AP1,polymeric silicone particle PP1 and polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2are the same as defined before.

Preferably the process for the preparation of a polymeric compositionMB1 suitable as a masterbatch for making polymeric composition PC1comprises also at least one of the following steps

-   -   mixing the a) (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 with b) polymeric        silicone particle PP1 having a weight average particle diameter        between 1 μm and 10 μm;    -   mixing a composition comprising a) (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 and        a b) polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm with a c) polymeric        (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight average particle        diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm and with an additional        quantity of (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 or a (meth)acrylic polymer        AP2;    -   mixing a composition comprising a) (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 and        a b) polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm with a composition        comprising c) polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a        weight average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm and a        (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 or a (meth)acrylic polymer AP2;    -   mixing a composition comprising a) (meth)acrylic polymer AP1,        a b) polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm and a c) polymeric        (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight average particle        diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm with an additional quantity of        (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 or a (meth)acrylic polymer AP2.

The (meth)acrylic polymer AP1, the polymeric silicone particle PP1 andpolymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 in the process are the same asdescribed before.

With regard to the process for obtaining a polymeric composition PC1,said composition PC1 comprises:

-   -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1    -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm and    -   c) a polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight        average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,        characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.05 wt %        and 10 wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b)        and c);        said process comprises    -   either the step of blending the (meth)acrylic polymer        composition MB1 comprising either:        -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1,        -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average            particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm,        -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.5            wt % and 50 wt % of the composition comprising the            components a) and b) with a    -   with a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 and a polymeric (meth)acrylic        particle PP2 having a weight average particle diameter between        20 μm and 100 μm;    -   or comprises the step of    -   blending a (meth)acrylic polymer composition MB1 comprising:        -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1,        -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average            particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm,        -   c) a polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight            average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,        -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.5            wt % and 50 wt % of the composition comprising the            components a), b) and c) and that the particle PP2            represents between 10 wt % and 49 wt % of the composition            comprising the components a), b) and c);    -   with a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 and a polymeric (meth)acrylic        particle PP2 having a weight average particle diameter between        20 μm and 100 μm.

According to a first preferred embodiment the process for obtaining apolymeric composition PC1, said composition PC1 comprises:

-   -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1    -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm    -   c) a polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight        average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,    -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.05 wt %        and 10 wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b)        and c) and that the particle PP2 represents between 0.1 wt % and        20 wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b) and        c);        said process comprises the step of blending the (meth)acrylic        polymer composition MB1 comprising:    -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1,    -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm,    -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.5 wt %        and 50 wt % of the composition comprising the components a)        and b) with a        with a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 and a polymeric (meth)acrylic        particle PP2 having a weight average particle diameter between        20 μm and 100 μm.

According to a second preferred embodiment the process for obtaining apolymeric composition PC1, said composition PC1 comprises:

-   -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1    -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm    -   c) a polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight        average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,    -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.05 wt %        and 10 wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b)        and c) and that the particle PP2 represents between 0.1 wt % and        20 wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b) and        c);        said process comprises the step of blending the (meth)acrylic        polymer composition MB1 comprising:    -   a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1,    -   b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average        particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm,    -   c) a polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight        average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,    -   characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.5 wt %        and 50 wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b)        and c) and that the particle PP2 represents between 10 wt % and        49 wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b) and        c);        with a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 and a polymeric (meth)acrylic        particle PP2 having a weight average particle diameter between        20 μm and 100 μm

The (meth)acrylic polymer AP1, the polymeric silicone particle PP1 andpolymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 in the processes for obtaining apolymeric composition PC1, are the same as described before.

The weight ratio between silicone particle PP1 and polymeric(meth)acrylic particle PP2 in the composition PC1 is chosen that thepolymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 is always in excess. This is notthe case for the polymeric composition MB1, where the presence of thepolymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 is optional.

Preferably the ratio by weight of polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2to silicone particle PP1 is at least 2/1, more preferably 5/2 and evenmore preferably at least 10/1 advantageously at least 20/1 and mostadvantageously at least 25/1.

According to the invention the weight ratio of the silicone particlesPP1 in the composition PC1 is less important than weight ratio of thepolymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2. In the polymeric composition PC1the absolute weight of the silicone particles PP1 is in minority in viewof polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2.

According to the invention the weight ratio of the polymeric(meth)acrylic particle PP2 in the composition PC1 is more important thanweight ratio of the silicone particles PP1. In the polymeric compositionthe absolute weight of the polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 is inexcess in view of silicone particles PP1.

The polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 of the composition PC1 have anexcess quantity in wt % in the composition PC1 that is at least twotimes the quantity of the silicone particles PP1. The polymeric(meth)acrylic particle PP2 of the composition according to the inventionhave an excess quantity in wt % in the composition that is at most fourhundred times than the quantity of the silicone particles PP1.

The weight average particle diameter of the polymeric (meth)acrylicparticle PP2 in the composition is more important than the weightaverage particle diameter of the silicone particle PP1. The polymeric(meth)acrylic particle PP2 of the composition according to the inventionhave an weight average particle diameter that is at least three timesmore important than the weight average particle diameter of siliconeparticles PP1. Preferably the weight average particle diameter ofpolymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 is at least five time moreimportant, more preferably at least seven times more important, stillmore preferably ten times more important than the weight averageparticle diameter of silicone particles PP1.

The polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 of the composition according tothe invention have an weight average particle diameter that is at mostone hundred times more important than the weight average particle ofdiameter silicone particles PP1. Preferably the weight average particlediameter of polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 is at most eighty timemore important, more preferably at most seventy times more important,still more preferably fifty times more important than the weight averageparticle diameter of silicone particles PP1.

The refractive index of silicone particles PP1 is less important thanthe refractive index of the (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 of the compositionaccording to the invention. Preferably the difference of refractionindex between the (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 and silicone particles PP1is at least 0.01, more preferably at least 0.02 and still morepreferably at least 0.03.

The refractive index of the polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 is moreimportant than the refractive index of the (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 ofthe composition according to the invention. Preferably the difference ofrefraction index between the polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 andthe (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 is at least 0.005, more preferably atleast 0.01 and still more preferably at least 0.015.

Preferably in the composition according to the invention, the refractiveindex of silicone particles PP1 is less important than the refractiveindex of the (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 and the refractive index of thepolymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 is more important than therefractive index of the (meth)acrylic polymer AP1.

According to a further aspect the present invention concerns a processfor making an object by transforming and/or processing the polymericcomposition PC1 obtained from the polymeric composition MB1 according tothe invention.

The transformation can be made by injection moulding, extrusion,coextrusion or extrusion/blow molding. Preferably the transformation ismade by injection moulding or extrusion.

In a first preferred embodiment of the process for making an object ismade by injection moulding. A moulded object is obtained.

The process for making a moulded object according to the inventioncomprises the steps of

-   -   melting the composition comprising the (meth)acrylic polymer        AP1, silicone particles PP1 and polymeric (meth)acrylic particle        PP2    -   injecting the molten composition into a mould    -   applying pressure to the mould at least until the mould is        completely filled with the molten composition.

In a second preferred embodiment of the process for making an object thetransformation process is made by extrusion.

The process for making a moulded object according to the inventioncomprises the steps of

-   -   feeding the polymeric composition comprising the (meth)acrylic        polymer AP1, silicone particles PP1 and polymeric (meth)acrylic        particle PP2 into an extruder,    -   melting the composition comprising a (meth)acrylic copolymer in        the extruder    -   extruding the molten composition.

According to a still further aspect the present invention concerns theuse of the composition PC1 obtained from the polymeric composition MB1for making an object or a moulded object.

The composition PC1 according to the invention can be used for making anobject or a moulded object or article or be used to be part of anarticle. Preferably the object or a moulded object or article or be usedto be part of an article made out of the composition according to theinvention has a thickness of more than 50 μm, more preferably more than100 μm and even more preferably more than 500 μm.

The composition PC1 obtained by the process according to the inventioncan be used to be transformed directly into an article or object or canbe part of an article or object.

According to a still further aspect the present invention concerns anobject or a moulded object made of the polymeric composition PC1obtained from the polymeric composition MB1 according to the presentinvention.

The object or moulded object of the invention can be in form of a sheet,block, film, tube or profiled element. Preferably the moulded objects asheet, which can be plain or slightly bent or curved.

Examples for object or moulded objects or articles are covers or platesfor luminous devices.

In one embodiment the moulded object is a cover for a light source. Thecover generally has a thickness of between 0.001 cm and 15 cm,preferably between 0.01 cm and 10 cm, more preferably between 0.05 cmand 7 cm, more preferably between 0.1 cm and 5 cm and even morepreferably between 0.2 cm and 4 cm.

Additionally according to another aspect of the present invention thecomposition obtained from the polymeric composition MB1 according to theinvention can used as a covering for a point light source. The lightsource plus cover forms a luminous device. The cover may be a singlelayer, or may be a multi-layer structure. The cover is separated fromthe light source by a distance of between 0.11 and 50 cm, preferablybetween 1 and 40 cm, preferably between 2 and 20 cm and even morepreferably between 3 and 20 cm.

The luminous device according to the invention has a variety ofapplications such as, for example:

-   -   interior lighting (living room lamps, office lamps, etc.);    -   advertising displays;    -   illuminated signs (in this case, the cover may especially have        the form of a letter, a number, a symbol or any other sign);    -   industrial lightning;    -   outdoor lightning; and    -   automobile lighting (for example the luminous device may be a        headlamp, a daytime light, a direction indicator, a stop light,        a fog lamp, reversing light, etc.).

METHODS

The optical properties of the polymers are measured according tofollowing method: light transmittance and haze are measured according tothe standard ASTM D1003, sheets of 2 mm thickness for molded samples. Ahaze-gard plus apparatus from BYK-Gardner is used.

Refractive index is measured with a refractometer.

Particle size: is measured by Laser diffraction with a Coulter Counter.

EXAMPLES

The silicone particle PP1 is additive 30-424 from Dow Corning. Theweight average particle diameter is between 1 μm and 3 μm.

As polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 in the examples is used acommercial product from ALTUGLAS BS110 having generally a weight averageparticle diameter between 35 μm and 60 μm and a batch having a weightaverage particle diameter of 50 μm was used.

A copolymer of methyl methacrylate having a melt flow index of 8 g/10min is used as (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 and silicone particles PP1 andpolymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 are respectively blended with the(meth)acrylic polymer AP1. The blending is made by compounding with atwo screw extruder.

Example 1—a masterbatch composition C1 is prepared by blending 3.5 kg orPP1 with 6.5 kg of AP1.

1. A polymeric composition MB1 comprising: a) a (meth)acrylic polymerAP1, b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight averageparticle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm, characterized that theparticle PP1 represents between 0.5 wt % and 50 wt % of the compositioncomprising the components a) and b).
 2. The polymeric composition MB1according to claim 1 comprising additionally: c) a polymeric(meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight average particle diameterbetween 20 μm and 100 μm.
 3. The polymeric composition MB1 according toclaim 2 characterized in that the polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2represents between 10 wt % and 49 wt %.
 4. The composition according toclaim 1 or 2 characterized in that the polymeric silicone particle PP1represents between 10 wt % and 50 wt %.
 5. The polymeric composition MB1according to claim 1 or 2 characterized in that the polymeric siliconeparticle PP1 represents between 11 wt % and 50 wt %
 6. The polymericcomposition MB1 according to claim 1 or 2 characterized in that thepolymeric silicone particle PP1 represents between 15 wt % and 50 wt %.7. The polymeric composition MB1 according to claim 1 or 2 characterizedin that the polymeric silicone particle PP1 represents between 16 wt %and 40 wt %.
 8. The polymeric composition MB1 according to claim 2 or 3characterized in that the polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2represents between 30 wt % and 49 wt %.
 9. The polymeric composition MB1according to any of claims 1 to 8 characterized that the polymericsilicone particle PP1 has a refractive index between 1.30 and 1.45,preferably between 1.35 and 1.45, advantageously between 1.36 and 1.44.10. The polymeric composition MB1 according to any of claims 1 to 9characterized that the polymeric silicone particle PP1 is having aweight average particle diameter between 1 μm and 9 μm, more preferablybetween 1 μm and 8 μm, still more preferably between 1 μm and 7 μm, evenmore preferably between 1 μm and 6 μm, advantageously between 1 μm and 5μm and more advantageously between 1 μm and 4 μm.
 11. The polymericcomposition MB1 according to any of claim 2 to or 8, characterized thatin the polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 at least 50 wt % of monomersare coming from acrylic and/or methacrylic monomers in the polymerchains of the polymeric particle PP2.
 12. The polymeric compositionaccording to any of claim 2 to 3 or 8, characterized that the polymeric(meth)acrylic particle PP2 is having a weight average particle diameterbetween 35 μm and 90 μm, more preferably between 35 μm and 60 μm. 13.The polymeric composition according to any of claims 1 to 12,characterized that the meth)acrylic polymer AP1 comprises at least 50 wt% of monomers coming acrylic and/or methacrylic monomers.
 14. Thepolymeric composition according to any of claims 1 to 13, characterizedthat the meth)acrylic polymer AP1 is a homo- or copolymer of methylmethacrylate (MMA) that comprises at least 50%, preferably at least 60%,advantageously at least 70% and more advantageously at least 80% byweight of methyl methacrylate.
 15. The polymeric composition MB1according to claim 2 or 3 characterized in that the weight averageparticle diameter of the polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 that is atleast three times more important than the weight average particlediameter of silicone particles PP1.
 16. The polymeric composition MB1according to claim 2 or 3 characterized in that the weight averageparticle diameter of the polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 that is atmost one hundred times more important than the weight average particlediameter of silicone particles PP1.
 17. The polymeric composition MB1according to any of claims 1 to 16 characterized in that the differenceof refraction index between the (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 and siliconeparticles PP1 is at least 0.01, more preferably at least 0.02 and stillmore preferably at least 0.03.
 18. The polymeric composition MB1according to claim 2 or 3 characterized in that the difference ofrefraction index between the polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 andthe (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 is at least 0.005, more preferably atleast 0.01 and still more preferably at least 0.015.
 19. Process for thepreparation of a polymeric composition MB1 according to any of claims 1to 18, characterized that said process comprises the step of blendingthe components a), b) and optionally c).
 20. The process according toclaim 19, characterized that the blending is made by compounding.
 21. Aprocess for the preparation of a polymeric composition PC1 comprising a)a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 havinga weight average particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm c) a polymeric(meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight average particle diameterbetween 20 μm and 100 μm, characterized that the particle PP1 isrepresents between 0.05 and 10 wt % of the composition comprising thecomponents a), b) and c); characterized in that said process comprisesthe step of blending the composition MB1 according to any of claims 1 to18 at least one time with a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 and a polymeric(meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight average particle diameterbetween 20 μm and 100 μm.
 22. A process for the preparation of apolymeric composition PC1 comprising a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 b) apolymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average particlediameter between 1 μm and 10 μm c) a polymeric (meth)acrylic particlePP2 having a weight average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,characterized that the particle PP1 is represents between 0.05 and 10 wt% of the composition comprising the components a), b) and c);characterized in that said process comprises either the step of blendingthe (meth)acrylic polymer composition MB1 comprising either: a) a(meth)acrylic polymer AP1, b) a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having aweight average particle diameter between 1 μm and 10 μm, characterizedthat the particle PP1 represents between 0.5 wt % and 50 wt % of thecomposition comprising the components a) and b) with a with a(meth)acrylic polymer AP1 and a polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2having a weight average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm; orcomprises the step of blending a (meth)acrylic polymer composition MB1comprising: a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1, b) a polymeric siliconeparticle PP1 having a weight average particle diameter between 1 μm and10 μm, c) a polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight averageparticle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm, characterized that theparticle PP1 represents between 0.5 wt % and 50 wt % of the compositioncomprising the components a), b) and c) and that the particle PP2represents between 10 wt % and 49 wt % of the composition comprising thecomponents a), b) and c); with a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 and apolymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight average particlediameter between 20 μm and 100 μm.
 23. A process for the preparation ofa polymeric composition PC1 comprising a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 b)a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average particlediameter between 1 μm and 10 μm c) a polymeric (meth)acrylic particlePP2 having a weight average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,characterized that the particle PP1 is represents between 0.05 and 10 wt% of the composition comprising the components a), b) and c) and thatthe particle PP2 represents between 0.1 wt % and 20 wt % of thecomposition comprising the components a), b) and c); characterized inthat said process comprises the step of blending the (meth)acrylicpolymer composition MB1 comprising: a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1, b) apolymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average particlediameter between 1 μm and 10 μm, characterized that the particle PP1represents between 0.5 wt % and 50 wt % of the composition comprisingthe components a) and b) with a with a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 and apolymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2 having a weight average particlediameter between 20 μm and 100 μm.
 24. A process for the preparation ofa polymeric composition PC1 comprising a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 b)a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average particlediameter between 1 μm and 10 μm c) a polymeric (meth)acrylic particlePP2 having a weight average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,characterized that the particle PP1 is represents between 0.05 and 10 wt% of the composition comprising the components a), b) and c) and thatthe particle PP2 represents between 0.1 wt % and 20 wt % of thecomposition comprising the components a), b) and c); characterized inthat said process comprises the step of blending a (meth)acrylic polymercomposition MB1 comprising: a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1, b) apolymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average particlediameter between 1 μm and 10 μm, c) a polymeric (meth)acrylic particlePP2 having a weight average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.5 wt % and 50wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b) and c) and thatthe particle PP2 represents between 10 wt % and 49 wt % of thecomposition comprising the components a), b) and c); with a(meth)acrylic polymer AP1 and a polymeric (meth)acrylic particle PP2having a weight average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm. 25.Use of a composition MB1 according to any of claims 1 to 18 for making apolymeric composition PC1 comprising: a) a (meth)acrylic polymer AP1 b)a polymeric silicone particle PP1 having a weight average particlediameter between 1 μm and 10 μm c) a polymeric (meth)acrylic particlePP2 having a weight average particle diameter between 20 μm and 100 μm,characterized that the particle PP1 represents between 0.05 wt % and 10wt % of the composition comprising the components a), b) and c) and thatthe particle PP2 represents between 0.1 wt % and 20 wt % of thecomposition comprising the components a), b) and c).
 26. Process formaking an object by transforming and/or processing the polymericcomposition PC1 as defined in claim 22 or 23 or
 24. 27. Use of thecomposition PC1 as defined in claim 22 or 23 or 24 obtained from thepolymeric composition MB1 for making an object or a moulded object. 28.Object obtained according to the process of claims 26 or the use ofclaim 27 having a thickness of more than 50 μm, more preferably morethan 100 μm and even more preferably more than 500 μm.